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found to be carried on satisfactorily. There has been need once again to
stress the importance of a supply of water and sand being readily available
in case of fire.
INFESTATIONS
RODENT CONTROL
During the year 301 complaints of rats and mice have been received.
All complaints have been visited and in addition premises neighbouring
the houses from which the original complaints were received have been
visited where necessary. In consequence 398 properties have been inspected
for rat and mice infestations during the year.
Of these properties 295 were found to be infested and were treated
for infestations. The number of complaints received show a decrease
on the previous year.
The infestations have all been of a minor character and treatments
have in general been successful. Where difficulty has been experienced
re-treatment with variations of poisons and bait has produced satisfactory
results.
In accordance with the requirements of the Rodent Control Branch
of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food two treatments of
the sewers were made. The first was made in June following the test
baiting of 10 per cent. of the sewer manholes in the district. A maintenance
treatment was carried out in November when 29 manholes were
baited. Only four "takes" were recorded and for this treatment Warfarin
with para nitrophenol as a mould inhibitor was used. Inspections were
made on the fourth, eighth and eleventh days after baiting, the amount
of bait being doubled each time a "take" was recorded. No "takes" were
recorded at the last inspection.
INSECT CONTROL
The numbers of complaints received regarding infestation by insects
was approximately the same as the previous year. The majority of the
insects complained of were carpet beetles, moths and similar types.
All complaints were visited and advice given, and where necessary insecticide
supplied free of cost. Wasps nests are destroyed by the Council on
payment of a small charge to cover cost of materials and time and during
the summer 53 nests were dealt with.
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